Bamboo, one plant is gaining a lot of attention with local town officials. The quick growing, woody plant is growing tall, and dividing neighbors.
After complaints from residents, the Town of Smithtown passed a bamboo code in August that requires property owners to keep bamboo 10 feet back off their property line. This is designed to alleviate concerns that the plant's extensive roots could cause damage a neighbors in-ground pools, fences and other structures.
Islip Town officials are now considering taking action to limit bamboo. Town Board members said the fast-growing, non-native species poses a threat to the local ecosystem. The first draft of code calls for prohibiting the planting of bamboo within 10 feet of a property line, street or sidewalk. Penalties for violating the law could include fines ranging from $250 to $2,500 and up to 15 days in jail.
Our Question of the Day asks: Should local governments restrict bamboo growth? Is the plant a problem that needs to be dealt with, or would a law be going too far in terms of regulating homeowners?
Tell us in the comments below.
